Hawaii is one of the great tourist destinations within the United States. Because of its seclusion from the rest of the country, it's also one of the most expensive destinations as well. For those looking to tip the scale and go all out while in Hawaii, there are multiple activities a person can undertake, from helicopter tours of the island to underwater snorkeling.
Helicopter tours
With so much to see in Hawaii, it's hard to take it all in, but possibly the best way to try is through a guided helicopter ride. It's slower than an airplane; the helicopter can also fly in closer for better views. Some of the most popular helicopter tours will take passengers down and around active volcanoes. When booking and going on one of these tours, it's best to go during the morning time. There will be less clouds at that time. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters is one of the more used helicopter tour companies on the island.
Blue Hawaiian Helicopter
105 Kahulul Heliport
Kahulul, HI 96732
Telephone: (800) 745-2583
Surfing Lessons
What's Hawaii without a little surfing? Even if you have never tried surfing before, this will be the perfect time to start. The Kona Surf Company will provide lessons for any age group. If you're lucky, you'll be able to have a one-on-one lesson. However, groups will never exceed four students per surf instructor.
Kona Surf Company
78-6685 Ali'i Drive
Kailua-Kona, HI 96793
Telephone: (808) 217-5329
Snorkeling
With some of the most beautiful water and coast line in the world--as well as fascinating sea life--snorkeling is one of the most popular tourist activities in Hawaii. Body Glove Cruises specializes in these such adventures, and their most popular group tour is the deluxe morning snorkel cruise. Snorkelers will receive their own equipment, as well as breakfast and lunch provided. This will be a full four and a half hours of fun.
Body Glove Cruises
75-5629 Kuakini Highway
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Telephone: (800) 551-8911
Scuba Diving
The next step following snorkeling will be to go scuba diving. This will allow you to stay submerged and experience more of the sea life swimming around you. Of course, before you can go scuba diving, you have to be certified. However, you can quickly become certified. Several snorkeling groups around the island will provide training for the activities. When you're done with the classes, you will be completely certified. The class lasts for eight hours; Mauna Lani Sea Adventures performs the certification class.
Mauna Lani Sea Adventures, Inc.
68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive
Kohala Coast, Hi 96743
Telephone: (800) 885-7883
The Laua
Host or attend an authentic Hawaiian luau. These parties can get quite pricey, but it's something that you will always remember. Make reservations well in advance of your stay. You can even purchase authentic Hawaiian items to later host your own luau when you return home. Have someone play a ukulele. Make sure that all guests have a lei. A lady's costume may consist of a grass skirt, sarong and coconut (or otherwise tropically themed) bra. Don't forget the tiki.
Tags: Mauna Lani, most popular, authentic Hawaiian, Blue Hawaiian, Body Glove